Family Treasures

My last Uncle passed away this week at the age of 90.  Even though I'm very sad about his loss, there is comfort in knowing that he had a good long life. And even despite a few health problems, he was lucky to be able to continue living at home with his wife (my Aunt of course) of more than 60 years.  My Uncle's passing reminded me that he and my two remaining Aunts are truly a connection to other family members, my past, my childhood and my Mother.  They are what I consider our 'family treasures.'  


With the arrival of Lucas this week, I have thought a lot about 'family treasures.'  He is as you know a senior dog, about 12 or 13 years old.  To many, Lucas would be considered a family treasure.  One that would be looked after, worried about and cared for.  But he wasn't...Or was he? 

I was contacted by someone from the rescue that Lucas's owner had come forward late on Friday to claim him.  The shelter contacted the rescue and asked about perhaps returning him.  I discussed at length with the volunteer from the rescue about Lucas's physical condition--He's almost totally deaf, thin, and as mentioned, his teeth are in terrible condition (!!), and he's also not neutered.  While he may have been loved, I don't believe that he has been cared for or worried about.  This was confirmed when the shelter manager said that the explanation given about why he wasn't looked for earlier was because he was an outdoor dog and 'would be gone for several days, but always came home.'  The owner also said that Lucas 'knew about cars and knew to stay out of the street.'  My problem with that is that Lucas came from the inner-city of Baltimore, not the safest place for anyone on the street, two or four legged.

However the question remained, should Lucas be returned?  He was held at the shelter for the required 5 days.  The rescue legally owns him.  However, when there are extenuating circumstances and owners come forward afterwards, there have been times when dogs have been returned.  But all things such as the owners explanation, the condition of the Golden and the life they would be returning to are all considered and discussed.


In Lucas's case, because of the extensive cost, he probably won't receive the needed vet care.  He also would probably be returning to a life on the street, or maybe even tied up outside. 

Taking all this into consideration, it was decided and I agree that he should not be returned to his previous owner.  I know that some of you will disagree with this decision, and may find it 'heartless.' I respect those feelings.  But I feel strongly that Lucas should have the care he deserves at his age.  He should have a warm place to sleep and good meals every day.  He should have someone who worries about him, every day.  Lucas should have a home where every day, he's treasured.